Newsroom
Norway announced Friday it is lifting a 65-year-old arms embargo on Cyprus, opening the way for the export of defense and dual-use military equipment to the island nation.
The decision, conveyed to President Nikos Christodoulides by Norway’s Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide, was welcomed by Christodoulides as a “significant step in strengthening bilateral defense cooperation.”
The embargo, in place since 1959, was part of Norway’s long-standing policy of restricting arms exports to countries experiencing war, the threat of war, or internal conflict. Norwegian officials said its removal recognizes Cyprus as a reliable partner and a stabilizing security factor in the Eastern Mediterranean.
Cyprus officials credited the move to sustained diplomatic efforts and dialogue with Norway, aimed at restoring equal treatment within European and transatlantic frameworks. The change is expected to enhance not only defense cooperation but also broader regional stability and security, building on existing collaboration in energy and environmental initiatives.
